Stay Cool Without Cranking Up Your AC

Summers in Charlotte, NC, are hot and humid, so it’s tempting to keep the air conditioner running at full-blast, but if you want to save money on your utility bills, you might want to consider other ways to stay cool without cranking up the AC.

1. Keep the Blinds Closed

Did you know that 30 percent of unwanted heat seeps into your home through the windows? You can combat the greenhouse effect by keeping all blinds and curtains closed during the day. Doing so can lower your home’s mid-day temperature by as much as 20 degrees. For best results, invest in blackout curtains and keep them drawn during the day.

2. Utilize Fans

If you miss the open windows, wait to open them until after nightfall when the sun has gone down and the temperature has cooled off. Even better, position portable fans near open windows and turn on ceiling fans to create a windchill effect at night. Set your ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise during the summer. This setting pushes air downward, creating a blowing effect and making you feel cooler. Just be sure to turn off fans when you leave the room since they only make you feel cool and don’t actually lower the room’s temperature.

3. Cook Outside

Heating up the kitchen is never a good idea in the summer, especially when you’re trying to reduce your AC reliance. Instead, cook on an outdoor grill or order takeout food. Anytime you can avoid heating up the kitchen gives your air conditioner a break.

4. Upgrade to a New Thermostat

A programmable or smart thermostat can help you save energy without cranking up the AC. Simply program the thermostat to run the system at a more efficient setting while you’re at work. You can still enjoy maximum cooling when you get home, but your system won’t be working overtime 24 hours a day.

Keep your air conditioner in optimal shape to save energy this summer. Call Union Services at 704-233-7029 to request an appointment today.